Feeding Behaviour: The Links Between Anxiety, Reactivity & Nutrition with Sam van Eggermond

When behaviour begins in the body

When a dog struggles with anxiety, impulsivity, or reactivity, the conversation almost always starts with training.

But what if behaviour doesn’t only begin with what we see on the outside? What if part of the story begins inside the body - in the gut, the nervous system, and the nutrients that shape them both?

In this episode, I’m joined by fellow canine nutrition consultant and behaviour professional Sam van Eggermond for a fascinating conversation exploring the emerging connections between nutrition, the gut microbiome, and behaviour in dogs.

Sam’s journey into this work began in shelters and rescue environments, supporting dogs with complex behavioural challenges. Over time, she started noticing patterns. Many of the dogs struggling most with anxiety, impulsivity, or reactivity were also dealing with digestive issues, sensitivities, or diets that simply weren’t supporting their physiology.

Those observations sparked a deeper investigation into nutrition and the gut microbiome - as well as a critical look at some of the research shaping behaviour advice today.

In this conversation, Sam brings both curiosity and nuance to a rapidly evolving field. Together, we explore how behaviour might sometimes be a biological signal as much as a training challenge, and why supporting the body can be an important part of supporting the mind.

In this episode we explore

• Sam’s early work in shelters and rescues, and how it shaped her approach to behaviour and nutrition
  • The patterns she began noticing between digestive health and behavioural challenges
  • How nutrition and the gut microbiome may influence stress, mood, and emotional regulation in dogs
  • Why some studies on diet and behaviour deserve closer scrutiny
  • Questions guardians can begin asking when their dog is struggling with anxiety or reactivity
  • The vision behind the UK Centre for Canine Reactivity and Aggression dedicated to supporting dogs with complex behaviours, and the guardians who love them

To learn more and connect with Sam:

https://www.ukccra.co.uk/

https://www.instagram.com/ukcaninereactivity/

https://www.instagram.com/feedingcaninebehaviour/

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61576355878714

Connect with me!

Website: https://mysticdogmama.com

Instagram: https://instagram.com/mysticdogmama

Come join my free Facebook group, First Light. It’s my sanctuary where soulful dog mamas like you find clarity, confidence, and connection https://facebook.com/groups/fetchfirstlight

Disclaimer: The information provided is for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose or treat any disease, or replace medical guidance. Please speak with your veterinarian.